St. Pius V Parish
School has a rich history spanning more than 100 years. In 1868
the Sisters of
St. Joseph, brought over from France by Bishop Augustin Verot
to provide education for the children of the newly freed slaves,
opened a school in downtown Jacksonville.
In 1903 the sisters
and students moved into a new school building, located next to
Immaculate Conception Church on Church Street. The school was
called St Catherine's School in honor of Mother Katharine Drexell,
who donated funds to build the school.
In 1919, a new
parish, St. Pius V, was formed in the Diocese of St. Augustine
and was located on State and Lee Streets and in May of 1921 the
sisters and students moved into St. Pius V Catholic School. In
1961, the Church-school was relocated to its present location
on 13th and Blue Streets.
In the years since
1961, the parish has built a third church and the school has added
4 classrooms. St. Pius V Parish School serves students from pre-kindergarten
through 8th grade.
St. Pius School
offers children a quality education, dedicated teachers, religious
values, a moral and spiritual environment, and a lifetime benefit.
Sisters
of St. Joseph Federation